Joe Gonzalez at CrossCountry Mortgage, Inc.

FOMC Statement: Federal Reserve Discusses Rate Increase, But Concerned About Growth

Posted on March 19, 2015 by joeglez

The post-meeting statement of the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee indicated that while the Fed is considering raising its target rate as early as June, the agency is in no hurry to cast anything in cement. The statement cited stronger labor markets and low unemployment rates as encouraging, but noted that FOMC members remain concerned about economic growth due to low inflation failing to meet the FOMC goal of two percent.

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Variable-rate vs. Fixed-rate Mortgages – Which is Better for Your Financial Situation?

Posted on March 18, 2015 by joeglez

If you are thinking about applying for a mortgage, it is important that you consider all of the options carefully and that you understand the key differences between them. Let’s compare variable-rate and fixed-rate mortgages to see which might be the best in your situation.

Understanding the Key Factors That Affect Your Mortgage Interest Rate

Posted on March 17, 2015 by joeglez

When you initially start shopping for a home mortgage, you may be drawn to advertisements for ultra-low interest rates. However, the unfortunate truth is that all too often, mortgage applicants are unpleasantly surprised and even disheartened to learn that they do not qualify for the advertised interest rate.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 16, 2015

Posted on March 16, 2015 by joeglez

Last week’s economic reports included job openings, retail sales, retail sales except automotive, consumer sentiment for March and the usual reports on weekly jobless claims and mortgage rates.

Have You Outgrown Your Current Home? Here Are Five Easy Ways to Tell if It’s Time to Upgrade

Posted on March 13, 2015 by joeglez

Your home is your castle, your own little piece of the American dream. But lately, your little corner of the world has been feeling cramped and you find yourself eyeing those larger homes. Is it time to pull up stakes and move on from your starter home?

The Mortgage Pre-approval Letter: Why It’s Important and How to Get One

Posted on March 12, 2015 by joeglez

While you may feel as though you have taken the preliminary steps necessary to prepare yourself to buy a home, it is important that you also get a mortgage pre-approval letter for your financing before you starting hunting for that perfect house or condo.

Taking an Extended Vacation? Renting Your Home to Long-Term Tenants is a Great Option

Posted on March 11, 2015 by joeglez

If you have the luxury of taking an extended vacation, you may have your sights set on adventure and relaxation. However, you also need to consider the practicality of leaving behind your home and belongings for an extended period of time. A great idea is to take on a long-term tenant for your home, and there are a number of benefits that you can enjoy by doing this.

Missed a Mortgage Payment? How to Ensure It Doesn’t Affect Your Credit Score

Posted on March 10, 2015 by joeglez

If you pay attention to your credit rating, you may be well aware that a single late payment reflected on your credit report can result in a decline in your scores. In some cases, the decline can be rather significant, and you will have to work hard to make regular payments over a period of time to show that you remain creditworthy and to rebuild your credit score.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 9, 2015

Posted on March 9, 2015 by joeglez

Last weekâs economic news was scant on housing related reports, but several employment reports were released along with the national unemployment rate, which dipped to 5.50 percent. This was a full point below the Federal Reserveâs original target rate of 6.50 percent. Construction spending was incrementally lower than expected and mortgage rates also fell.

Three Inexpensive Makeovers That Will Boost Your Home’s Appeal to Young Buyers

Posted on March 6, 2015 by joeglez

If you have determined that there are many younger buyers moving into your area, you may want to make a few changes that will add appeal to this target audience. While you could spend tens of thousands of dollars or more completing a home makeover, there are a few budget-minded ideas that you may consider.